I think most of us know that the Judge has a musical introduction that was cut from the original production: the song, "Johanna". This was done to lift a spot in the first act where the show dragged., although the song was included on the recording. Stephen Sondheim gave permission for the song to be restored in the New York City Opera production, where he felt that the show 'no longer sagged' and 'had mysteriously found its shape' (cf. p. 350 in Finishing the Hat).

So what do you think? Does the number belong in the show or not? Why do you feel the way you do?

I agree with Hans and his reasoning, but would also add that it creates a trio with "Sweeney's Johanna (Quartet)" and "Johanna" (this one being Anthony's, of course). This three songs together show the many sides and forms of love, exploring what a complicated emotion it truly is.

While I think that his song is wonderful in its own right, the sad fact of the matter is that it was cut for a reason. No one wants to watch a man whip himself into an orgasm while peeping on a teenager.

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Sun Dec 11, 2011 6:09 pm

Pannic

Broadway Legend / MdN Veteran

Joined: Thu Jul 19, 2007 9:21 pmPosts: 2570Location: California

Re: The Judge's "Johanna"

It's a matter of the director's discretion. If the guy cast as the Judge can handle it and it doesn't drag the pacing of the show, keep it in. If it does drag or the guy playing the judge isn't up to it, then cut it.

An actor should always be up to a challenge, especially if it's physically possible. Any actor playing the Judge is at least vocally able to sing the song, so there is no reason not to include it. Except for reasons of length.

I think the song has a place in the musical and that it gives the show a new aspect of love as ActingDude17 said.

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I believe the song is sinister perfection in musical form and it is one of my four favorite Sweeney songs. It should ALWAYS be kept, as should the dialogue between Turpin and Johanna that comes directly after it, for it shows the complexity of their twisted and dysfunctional relationship. I was sad to see both roles reduced in the movie.